Assistant Accountant

Assistant Accountant Location: Dubai, UAE Industry: Retail & FMCG Distribution Employment Type: Full-Time About the Company The Little Birdy Group is a fast-growing UAE-based distribution business representing a portfolio of leading international brands across multiple retail channels. With a strong market presence and ambitious growth plans across the GCC, we are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Junior Accountant to join our finance team in Dubai. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop their accounting career within a fast-paced retail and FMCG distribution environment. Role Overview The Junior Accountant will support the finance team with day-to-day accounting activities, reconciliations, accounts payable and receivable, inventory accounting, and month-end reporting. The ideal candidate will be organised, analytical and confident working with numbers, with some previous accounting experience preferably within retail, FMCG or distribution. The role will work closely with the wider finance, sales, supply chain and operations teams and offers significant opportunity for learning and development. Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Accounting & Reporting • Support the day-to-day accounting cycle including GL, AP and AR • Assist with bank reconciliations and payment reconciliations • Support month-end closing and preparation of management accounts • Maintain accurate accounting records and supporting documentation • Prepare balance sheet reconciliations and schedules • Assist with posting journals, accruals and prepayments • Ensure transactions are accurately recorded within the accounting system Accounts Receivable & Credit Control • Monitor customer accounts and outstanding receivables • Follow up with customers regarding overdue payments • Maintain accurate customer statements and ageing reports • Assist with credit control and ensure customer payment terms are monitored • Support reconciliation of customer deductions, credit notes and payments Accounts Payable & Supplier Management • Process and review supplier invoices • Reconcile supplier statements • Assist with preparation of supplier payment schedules • Ensure supplier payments are processed accurately and on time • Investigate invoice discrepancies and liaise with suppliers where required Retail & FMCG Accounting • Assist with inventory and stock reconciliations • Support landed cost calculations and allocations • Assist with gross margin and product profitability analysis • Support the accounting of promotions, rebates and supplier agreements • Assist with reconciliation of freight, customs, clearance and other landed costs • Work with the supply chain team to investigate stock and costing discrepancies Compliance & Controls • Assist with UAE VAT reporting and reconciliations • Maintain accurate documentation for audit and compliance purposes • Support the annual external audit process • Follow internal accounting controls and company procedures • Assist with improving finance processes and reporting Business Support • Assist with cash flow reporting and forecasting • Support budgeting and financial analysis • Prepare ad hoc financial reports as required • Work closely with sales, supply chain and operations teams to resolve accounting queries • Provide general support to the Finance Manager and wider finance team RequirementsMandatory Requirements • Minimum 2 years of accounting experience • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Commerce or a related field • Good understanding of basic accounting principles • Experience with accounts payable, accounts receivable and bank reconciliations • Strong Excel skills • High level of accuracy and attention to detail • Strong organisational and time-management skills • Fluent written and spoken English Preferred • Experience within retail, FMCG or distribution • Experience working with inventory-based businesses • Knowledge of UAE VAT regulations • Experience with Xero or another accounting/ERP system • ACCA, CMA, CPA or similar qualification in progress would be advantageous • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills • Comfortable working in a fast-paced, growing business • Proactive attitude and willingness to learn Show more Show less